Embracing Forgiveness: How Letting Go of Resentment Changed My Life
In Brianna Wiest’s powerful essay, "When You Are Ready to Change Your Life, Read This," I found a moment of self-reflection that hit me deeply, particularly on the topic of begrudging others. We all encounter individuals in our lives that we struggle to forgive. It could be a friend, family member, colleague, or someone who has wronged us in some way. For a long time, I carried resentment toward certain people—holding onto grudges that weighed heavily on my heart.
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But as I read Wiest’s essay and reflected on my own journey, I realized that harboring bitterness only held me back from experiencing true peace and growth. The constant grip of negativity kept me stuck in a cycle of anger and frustration, preventing me from moving forward.
A Shift in Perspective
What I once viewed as a justified reason to hold a grudge has now shifted in my heart. I've understood that resentment doesn't change the other person—it only poisons my spirit. God’s grace has been working in me, gently teaching me that forgiveness is not for the other person; it’s for me. It’s about freeing my heart from the chains of anger and making space for healing.
Through prayer and reflection, I’ve begun to let go of the weight I’ve been carrying. It hasn’t been easy, and it’s a process that requires continuous effort, but I can already feel a change. As I release the bitterness and resentment, I’m opening myself up to more compassion and peace. And I’m learning to see these individuals, not as sources of pain, but as opportunities for growth—both for them and for me.
God’s Guidance: Creating an Action Plan
This transformation is not a passive one. It requires action. I’ve been working on an action plan, with God's guidance, to help me continue walking the path of forgiveness. It's not just about letting go in the moment but making a commitment to stay aligned with a heart of compassion and understanding. This includes:
1. Reflecting on My Emotions – Before reacting, I take a moment to ask myself why I feel hurt or angry. This reflection helps me understand my emotions and where they come from.
2. Praying for Healing – Prayer has been a huge part of this journey. Asking God for strength to forgive and for a heart that can let go of grudges has been key in moving forward.
3. Setting Boundaries – Forgiving doesn’t mean allowing people to continue to hurt me. I’m learning how to set healthy boundaries while still showing grace and love.
4. Choosing Peace Over Revenge – Every day, I remind myself that peace is worth more than revenge. Letting go of resentment is a choice, and I am choosing peace.
The Power of Forgiveness
One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned is that forgiveness doesn't just free the other person; it releases me from the chains that held me captive. The song "Forgiveness" by Matthew West beautifully captures this truth:
"It'll clear the bitterness away / It can even set a prisoner free / There is no end to what its power can do."
These words hit home for me. When I choose to forgive, I am freeing myself. I am no longer a prisoner of my past pain, and I can move forward with a lighter heart and a renewed sense of purpose. Forgiveness has the power to transform us in ways we never imagined.
Letting Go and Moving Forward
If you're struggling with grudges or past hurts, I encourage you to take the first step toward forgiveness. It won’t happen overnight, but with prayer, reflection, and action, you can experience the freedom and peace that come from letting go. Remember, it’s not about excusing what was done—it’s about choosing peace for yourself and allowing space for healing.